Minneapolis–St. Paul. Relocating to Dallas, TX in June 2026.

Serving

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Online Dating Photographer in Minneapolis–St. Paul Creating Photos That Attract Real Matches

I’m not just your photographer — I’m your portrait confidence coach. Every dating session blends psychology, posing guidance, + storytelling to help you show up naturally on camera — no fake smiles or stiff poses here.

See online dating Packages →

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Book your session

  1. Fill out the inquiry/booking form
  2. Schedule your planning call
  3. Let’s capture your next chapter: Book Your Dating Session →

how to book

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Singles ready to upgrade their dating profiles with confident, genuine photos that attract the right matches

Who It’s For

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Minneapolis–St. Paul, MN → Expanding to Dallas, TX in 2026 (open to travel sessions)

the Location

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Online Dating Photography

the Service

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Key Facts: What to Know at a Glance

Natural, story-driven portraits that capture who you are — not just what you look like

The Result

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But they will stop the endless left-swipes. Studies show people form an opinion in less than one second — and your photo makes or breaks that first impression.

If your dating profile still leans on bathroom selfies, blurry group shots, or stiff studio portraits, it’s time for an upgrade. I’ll capture scroll-stopping photos that help you look confident, approachable, + authentically you — the kind that actually work on apps like Bumble, Hinge, + Tinder.

My clients consistently tell me their inbox goes from crickets to conversations within days of updating their photos.

Ready to see what a difference confidence makes?

Not in Minnesota? I’ll be bringing my online dating photography to Dallas in Summer 2026 — join the waitlist here.

Let’s be real — great photos won’t magically write your bio or guarantee Prince (or Princess) Charming

Professional dating profile photography in Minneapolis–St. Paul designed to stop the left-swipes and attract real, meaningful connections

Better Photos = Better Matches. Period.

After doubling my own match rate on Bumble — and eventually meeting my husband there at 42 — I realized something big: the right photos don’t just get attention; they attract alignment.

That personal transformation inspired me to create Shannon Kathleen Photography, a Twin Cities–based dating photography studio built on confidence coaching, psychology, and storytelling — not posing or pretense.

Today, I help clients in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and soon Dallas swap awkward selfies for magnetic, connection-driven portraits that get noticed for all the right reasons.

As seen on CBS, CNN NewsSource, and Bella Grace Magazine. Trusted by hundreds of real people looking for photos that actually work in modern dating.

  • Swipe-worthy posing → No awkward angles or “What do I do with my hands?” moments.
  • Confidence coaching → Show up calm, natural, and genuinely yourself.
  • Photos that feel like you → Real light, real energy, real connection.
  • Every image included → No hidden fees, no upsells. You get a full gallery of edited photos.

I’ve lived the dating-app chaos — and I know how powerful it feels to finally see yourself clearly.
These aren’t just photos. They’re the start of connection.

(See the success stories → and before-and-afters for proof)

“I’ve always dreaded photos. But these felt easy— and within a week, I had three new dates lined up.”
— St. Paul Client

Confidence-Based Dating Photography That Actually Works on the Apps

My Confidence-to-Connection Blueprint

The right dating photos don’t just make you visible — they make you memorable.
Most people think great dating photos just “happen.” The truth? They’re the result of a clear process that helps you feel prepared, relaxed, + confident in front of the camera — so your photos naturally do the work for you.

My sessions aren’t about stiff poses or fake smiles. They’re about creating real, natural moments — the kind that spark curiosity, confidence, + genuine connection (not just swipes).

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50% Prep | 50% Photography | 100% You  
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I created my Confidence-to-Connection Blueprint to make the entire experience effortless. Each session blends planning, coaching, and photography — so you never have to guess what to wear, how to pose, or what to do with your hands.

The result? You don’t just walk away with polished photos — you walk away with portraits that reflect your real self, boost your confidence, + help you attract more of the right matches on apps like Bumble, Hinge, + Tinder.

01. Reach out

02. Session Booked + QUESTIONNAIRE SUBMITTED

03. Plan your story→


— Location(s)

— Outfits

— vibe ideas tailored to you

04. Intentional + Relaxed Photography→

05. Your full gallery arrives

06. Launch Your New Dating Profile

— Natural posing guidance

— Gentle coaching

— Simple, natural prompts

From “I hate photos” to “wow, that’s me?”—in 4 simple steps.

87% of my clients report more matches within 48 hours of updating their profiles with their new photos.

Skeptical?
You should be.

The photography world is full of “smile pretty” pictures that look great on Instagram—but don’t actually work on dating apps.

That’s why I only share real client results — not models, not staged stories, + definitely not AI-generated photos. Just everyday people from Minneapolis–St. Paul who wanted better matches… and actually got them.

Because great dating photos don’t just get likes — they get replies, real dates, + real connection.

50+ 5 Star reviews
 

Proudly recommended by Blaine Anderson, one of the top dating coaches for men. As seen on CBS, CNN, and Bella Grace.

Real people. Real transformations. Here’s what my clients had to say after seeing themselves through a new lens.

don't just take my word for it

Glen | Minneapolis, MN

"I was in a rush to have a modern, high quality headshot for business. Shannon did an incredible job! She was very easy to work with, creative and made the whole experience enjoyable. We even did a few other casual (dating) shots taking advantage of downtown Minneapolis stores and restaurants as backdrops. Highly recommend!"


Ryan | Roseville, MN

"Shannon was great to work with from planning where the pictures would be taken through to taking the pictures. She did a wonderful job of getting me to smile and make me comfortable being the focus for an hour."

Lynn | Wayzata, MN

"I worked with Shannon to take photos for my online dating profile, and she was amazing! From answering all my questions beforehand to making me feel relaxed during the shoot, everything was seamless. The turnaround time was so quick, and when I shared the photos with my dating coach and group, the feedback was incredible—everyone raved about the quality and how stunning the photos turned out. Shannon truly captured my personality and beauty perfectly!"


Carolyn, | Blaine, MN

"Shannon did an exceptional job at my photo shoot for my dating app profile. She made the experience so fun and the photos turned out great. More than what I was hoping for especially as a women in her sixties. I have received many complements already.. beautiful, authentic, and tell a great story about me. Highly recommend!!"

Joshua | Minneapolis,  MN

"Shannon was great! She is very professional and wants to get exactly what you want out of your photos. She is also extremely friendly and makes the whole experience very easy if you're stressed about any of it. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for quality photography!"

Tony | Mineapolis, MN

"Shannon, You've performed an impressive feat, and not only taken pictures of me that I don't hate, but actually like, even smiling. If I run into people that need a similar flavor of service, I'll send them your way."

Kerry | Mankato, MN

"First off, Shannon was just amazing. She's very kind and easy to talk to. The overall experience was better than I could've hoped. She had her ideas but was open to any suggestions I had. She made me feel completely comfortable in the process. And the photos were outstanding. Highly recommend."

Kevin | Minneapolis, MN

"Shannon is an incredibly talented photographer. Her work is amazing, and it's the result of both her raw talent and the time and care she takes to ensure every detail is planned and her subjects are at ease. I would highly recommend Shannon for any of your photography needs!!!"

Charlie | Milaca, MN

"Shannon is an amazing photographer with a natural way of making anyone feel comfortable. I usually am not crazy about pictures, but she made my experience super easy, and a one-hour photo shoot only felt like ten minutes. You can instantly tell this is her passion and I wouldn’t recommend anyone else for high quality photos."

Katherine | Brooklyn Park, MN

"I had a great experience working with Shannon. It was easy to arrange for the dating photo session and the personal service was excellent. The photo session itself was wonderful, no awkward at all! I received my photos quickly, only a few days, and they turned out great! They were easy to download and now I can do whatever I want with them. Thank you, Shannon!"

Ben | Bloomington, MN

"Hey Shannon, 
They turned out great, thank you!

I was thinking I’d book you again for another 45 minute session but this time we could use a park or something and get some shots of me with my dogs?

The added benefit being that I just enjoy having pictures of my 2 girls with me too."

Kevin | Eden Prairie, MN

"I am VERY impressed with your professionalism and personal touch! I am looking forward to meeting with you on May 15th."

Felix | Rochester, MN

"Shannon is an excellent photographer that helps you feel comfortable and makes the session go by perfectly. She was able to address everything I was looking for in photos and really brought out my personality in them!"

Kevin B | Eden Prairie, MN

"Shannon does such a wonderful job! I was very impressed with both her professionalism and positive personality. And best of all my photos turned out great."

Twin Cities Client

“I booked the Signature Experience and honestly didn’t know what to expect. Shannon helped me find outfits that felt like ‘me,’ guided me without making it awkward, and made the whole process fun. The photos captured more than a look—they captured how I wanted to feel.”

St. Paul, MN Client

“Before my session, I avoided dating apps because I didn’t think I looked good enough. Afterward, I had photos that truly reflected who I am — confident, joyful, and real. I started getting messages from people I actually wanted to talk to.”

Want to see what happens when someone finally feels confident in front of the camera?

My clients aren’t models—they’re real people from Minneapolis–St. Paul (and beyond) who doubted dating photos could make a difference… until their stories proved otherwise.

From first dates to lasting love, these photos became the spark that changed everything.

“I never realized photos could change how I showed up in dating... until they did.”

Dating Photo Success Stories

  • End “just one okay pic” syndrome. Get a suite of scroll-stopping images that make people pause, notice, and reach out.
  • Confidence on demand. Calm any camera jitters with gentle posing + mindset coaching that helps you look like you at your best.
  • Matches that match. Attract the kind of people who actually want to meet — online and in real life.

Ready for Minneapolis Dating Photos That Actually Get You Dates?

Here’s what you’ll walk away with after your dating photography session — photos that stop scrolls and start conversations.

‘I couldn’t believe the messages pouring in—24 matches in 48 hours!’ — Claire, 45 (Twin Cities)




Online Dating Photography Packages in Minneapolis

Designed for real people who want photos that turn swipes into conversations.

45 min • 1 location • 7 images • No reschedule
A fast, stress-free refresh that still feels magnetic.

  • 1 outfit, 1 setting (simple + efficient)
  • 7 hand-edited images
  • Light posing direction for confidence

→ Ideal if: You need a quick confidence boost and a clean set of photos for your profile.

Essential Headshot Package

essential headshot
2 hrs • 3 locations • 40+ images • 1 reschedule
The balanced option—time to relax, variety to show the real you.

  • Up to 4 outfits
  • 3 locations (mix of lifestyle + headshot looks)
  • 40+ hand-edited images
  • Pre-session style & confidence call

→ Ideal if: You want a well-rounded gallery that feels authentic and versatile across apps.

Signature Experience Package

signature experience

MOst Popular

3 hrs • 3+ locations • 75+ images • 1 reschedule
Go all in—capture every facet of your personality.

  • 5+ outfits for maximum variety
  • 3+ locations (urban, casual, lifestyle)
  • 75+ hand-edited images
  • Style planning + confidence coaching

→ Ideal if: You’re ready for a full profile transformation and don’t want to feel rushed.

The Magnetic Portrait Experience

magnetic experience

Still unsure if professional dating photos are worth it? Totally get it.

I offer a no-pressure, 15-minute Dating Photo Strategy Call — where we’ll talk through your current dating profile, what’s working (and what’s not), and how to attract the kind of connections you actually want.
Think of it as your pre-date pep talk — minus the awkward small talk.

“Shannon’s consult helped me realize I needed more time to feel settled in and show the real me—total game changer.” — Mark, 42 (Twin Cities)

15 minutes. Zero pressure. 100% about you.

Let’s Chat It Out.

Not Ready to Book Yet?

Whether you’re swiping in Scottsdale, brunching in Boston, or making moves in Dallas, I offer travel dating photography sessions that help you look confident and authentic — wherever you are.

I’ll send a custom travel quote within 24 hours — no passport required, no surprise fees.

Ready to Swipe Right Anywhere?

Online Dating Photography FAQs

You’re not the first person to feel nervous about being photographed — especially for dating apps. That’s why I’ve answered my most common dating photography FAQs below.

What if I’m not photogenic or feel awkward in front of the camera?

Totally normal. Honestly? Expected. You don’t need to know how to pose — that’s my job. I’ll guide you with movement, prompts, and direction that feel real, not “posed.” We’ll laugh, take breaks, and find your natural rhythm so your confidence builds as we go. Most of my clients walk away saying, “That was way more fun than I expected!”

What should I wear (and should I do hair & makeup)?

Outfits make a huge difference — and yes, I’ll help you figure it all out. Once you book, you’ll get access to my full Style & Prep Guide (plus my favorite go-to blog posts for outfit inspiration). If you want extra help, I offer wardrobe consultations and stylist recommendations to nail your look.

💄 Hair & Makeup Tip:  Keep it authentic to how you actually show up. Think “first-date ready,” not unrecognizable glam. The goal is for your photos to feel like you — confident, comfortable, and totally magnetic

Where will my dating photo session take place?

Sessions happen all over Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding areas — from cozy cafés to scenic trails to downtown rooftops. I’ll help you choose spots that match your personality and the kind of connections you want to attract. Every location is handpicked for its light, vibe, and story potential.

Can I do multiple outfits or locations in one session?

Absolutely. All of my packages include some level of outfit and location variety. Whether we’re capturing casual coffee-shop energy or something more elevated and professional, I’ll map everything out so the session feels seamless and intentional — never rushed or chaotic. I also have a pop-up changing tent for quick and private changes.

How long until I get my photos back (and do you help me choose them)?

Your fully edited online gallery will be ready within 7–14 days of your session. If you book the Magnetic package, I’ll also help you choose your strongest lineup — the ones that radiate approachability, confidence, and authenticity. You’ll walk away with photos that feel true to who you are *and* optimized to perform on your dating apps. This line up is also available for purchase add-on to the other 2 packages.

Do I have to buy my photos separately?

Nope — every session includes your final, edited images. You’ll get a private online gallery with full download access, ready for sharing or uploading to dating apps. No hidden fees, no image upsells — just beautifully edited photos that are yours to keep.

What is dating profile photography (and why does it matter)?

Dating profile photography is a modern, story-driven approach to portraits designed to help you attract the right people — not just more people. These sessions capture your personality, confidence, and warmth in a natural, flattering way. Think less “headshot” and more “magnetic first impression.”

Whether you’re returning to dating or ready to level up your profile, professional photos help you get noticed for who you truly are — not just how you look.

Do you photograph women too?

Absolutely. While many of my dating photo examples feature men, I love photographing women just as much. I specialize in helping anyone — regardless of gender or age — feel confident, grounded, and seen. My work includes dating, branding, and senior portraits, and I tailor every session to highlight your unique energy.

How much does dating photography cost?

Packages range based on session length, locations, and level of support. Every package includes professional editing, full gallery access, and guidance throughout your session. You can explore current options and pricing on my Online Dating Photography page — no hidden fees, no gimmicks, just honest, all-inclusive pricing.

Not Ready to Book?
Start With These Free Dating Photo Resources

download the checklist ⟶

Want more tools? Visit the full Resource Hub →

Tired of guessing? This guided checklist helps you stay true to yourself, spot red flags early, and lean into connections that feel aligned, mutual, and meaningful.


The Heart of Attraction Checklist


get my free Guide ⟶

A quick-hit PDF that walks you through the biggest mistakes + best moves when it comes to dating profile pictures. Perfect if you're DIY-ing or just want to avoid the common pitfalls before your shoot.

Dating Photo Do’s & Don’ts Guide


Listen Now ⟶

Feeling nervous before a date? You’re not alone. This 3-minute guided affirmation helps calm your nerves + boost your confidence—so you can show up grounded, present, + ready to connect.

FREE Confidence Boost Audio

My approach is part coaching, part portrait session, + part mindset shift.
I guide you through the same confidence framework that helped me stop hiding from the camera — and start being seen as my truest self.
These aren’t stock dating photos. They’re mirrors that reflect who you really are — and the kind of connection you’re ready for.

The right photos don’t just get you more matches.
They help you attract the right ones.

Photos that say, “This is me. This is what I’m ready for.”

Because your story doesn’t start with a swipe —
it starts with the photo that makes someone stop, pause, and think:
I have to know more.

the Photos Aren’t Just for Your Profile—They’re for Your Future

Your dating photos should stop the scroll + feel like you.
I specialize in natural-light portraits that highlight your real personality — so you can feel confident, attract real matches, + enjoy the process along the way.

Serving Minneapolis–St. Paul (through Spring 2026) → Relocating to Dallas, TX (Summer 2026)
Sessions also available for travel + destination shoots by request.

Ready To Capture Your Story?

next steps...

Spam sucks and won't happen here. 

    ✓ Walk away with actionable tips you can apply today

    ✓ Learn what to avoid—and what to aim for

    ✓ Learn the #1 mistake most people don’t realize they’re making

    Grab this quick-hit guide that breaks down what actually works (and what silently kills attraction) in your dating photos.

    Want more right swipes—and better first impressions?

    The Do’s & Don’ts of Online Dating Photos


    Spam sucks and won't happen here. 

      ✓ Designed to help you show up as your best self

      ✓ Simple but powerful self-awareness prompts

      ✓ Backed by psychology

      Download the Heart of Attraction Checklist—a free guide to the inner traits + subtle behaviors that spark deeper connections. Whether you're dating or rediscovering your confidence, this tool will help you tap into what makes you naturally captivating.

      Curious what truly draws people in? This checklist reveals it all.


      Unlock the Qualities That Make You Magnetic